If youâre a wine lover planning a trip to the Finger Lakes region of New York, a visit to Keuka Lake wineries is a must. And in this guide, Iâm uncorking all the details you need.
This small lake has had a big impact on the U.S. wine industry. And itâs built a reputation as one of the top cool-climate wine-growing regions in North America.
Now, with 20 wineries to choose from (not to mention 100+ others in the surrounding Finger Lakes), it can be hard to pinpoint the absolute must-visits.
As an American Wine Expert and WSET-certified wine blogger, Iâve personally done the research for you. Iâve tasted my way through the region and hand-picked this short list of the best Keuka Lake wineries.
So, letâs dive in and start planning your unforgettable wine tasting adventure!
The Best Keuka Lake Wineries
1. Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery
A visit to Keuka Lake wineries isnât complete without stopping by Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery.
Known as the âFather of Vinifera,â Dr. Frank had a passion for wine from a young age. In 1951, armed with a Ph.D. in viticulture and a wealth of experience, he immigrated from the Ukraine to the U.S.
Despite being told that Vitis vinifera varieties could not be grown in the Finger Lakes, Dr. Frank persisted. And in 1957, he planted the first successful vinifera vines in the Eastern United States.
The following year, he purchased 188 acres on the west side of Keuka Lake. And by 1962, he founded Vinifera Wine Cellars (now Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery). Since then, his award-winning wines have been served at the White House and even to the Queen of England!
After Dr. Frankâs passing in 1985, the winery has been passed down through four generations. Their vineyards are split between Keuka and Seneca. Keuka brings a mineral style to Riesling and elegant reds. Seneca offers more warmth for ripening grapes like GrĂŒner Veltliner and Pinot Noir.
They use French oak barrels and also experiment with clay amphoras and skin-contact whites.
Wines to Try
Dr. Konstantin Frank wines are stunning. The Rieslings are of course fantastic. But I also loved the sparkling Brut Rosé with its delicious aromas of brioche and red berries.
And theyâre making some impressive reds, too. If you like Bordeaux-style wines, donât miss the Meritage blend.
Visiting
Make a reservation at their tasting room for a seated experience guided by knowledgeable wine educators. I recommend getting the cheese and charcuterie board to pair with your wines.
Or for a deeper dive, they also offer the educational (and tasty!) 1886 food and wine experience. And check out Eugeniaâs Garden for a more casual option â sip wine, enjoy the view, and unwind.
2. Weis Vineyards
Nestled on Keuka Lakeâs east side, Weis Vineyards is a newer gem. But itâs already making waves, being named New York Stateâs Winery of the Year in 2022.
Hans Peter grew up in his familyâs vineyard and winery in Mosel, Germany. After formally studying winemaking and a stint in Sonoma, he found himself in the Finger Lakes. And thatâs where he met his wife, Ashlee, a Hammondsport native.
In 2016, the two founded Weis Vineyards. And the tasting room opened its doors in the spring of 2017. Theyâve since graduated from the one-room schoolhouse to a breathtaking space overlooking the lake.
While they have a small estate vineyard planted in 2020, they mainly source grapes from other Finger Lakes growers.
Wines to Try
Weis makes excellent Rieslings in a variety of styles, from bone dry to sweet wines. The GrĂŒner Veltliner was also one of the best I had in the Finger Lakes, with mouthwatering acidity and crisp lemon-lime flavors.
For red wine lovers, donât miss the delicious Cabernet Franc, with beautiful cherry and cranberry notes. And try the BlaufrĂ€nkisch, with its smooth red berries and a touch of spice.
Visiting
When you visit, you can enjoy a tasting in the rustic but elegant barn space. Their knowledgeable tasting room staff will guide you through the experience.
Or grab a glass or flight and relax outdoors at the picnic tables overlooking the lake. All seating is first come, first served, as they donât take reservations.
Need a nibble? Their retail shop offers local cheeses, crackers, and snack packs. And keep an eye on the calendar for special events, including Thursday summer happy hours with wine, beer, food, and live music.
3. Keuka Lake Vineyards
At the southwestern end of Keuka Lake, youâll find Keuka Lake Vineyards â a small, family-owned farmstead.
After retiring, Mel and Dorothee Goldman settled in the Finger Lakes in 1997 and purchased a vineyard. What started as selling grapes soon turned into winemaking glory when their trial batch received resounding praise in France.
In 2005, guided by Morten Halgren of Ravines Wine Cellars, they uncorked their inaugural vintage. And adding winemaker Margot Federkiel, hailing from Napa and Anderson Valley, their team was complete.
They now have plantings on 35 acres, many on steep slopes. One is even aptly named âFalling Manâ because, well, tractors have been known to take a tumble there!
Fun Fact: The Silvernail Vineyard is the site of the original Gold Seal Wines plantings. This means they have some of the regionâs oldest vines, like 150-year-old Concord grapevines and 50-year-old LĂ©on Millot vines.
Wines to Try
Keuka Lake Vineyards has exceptional Rieslings. Try the dry Riesling for a more fruit-forward profile. Or the Falling Man Riesling, grown on those dramatic slopes, strikes a beautiful balance with heightened acidity.
Their herbal Vignoles was a standout too. And for something unique, donât miss trying the old vine LĂ©on Millot. This deeply colored hybrid grape was created in Alsace in 1911.
Visiting
During the summer, tastings take place in their rustic barn. Or you can grab a glass of wine and head to the small deck with stunning views of the vineyards and lake. For larger groups, call ahead to make sure they can accommodate you.
4. Ravines Wine Cellars
Founded in 2001 by Morten Hallgren and his chef wife Lisa, Ravines Wine Cellars brings a touch of European magic to the Finger Lakes.
Morten has winemaking roots in Provence, France, and a degree in enology and viticulture. After working his way through Bordeaux and several other parts of the United States, he landed in the Finger Lakes. And in 1998, he became the chief winemaker at Dr. Konstantin Frank before venturing out on his own.
With Ravines Wine Cellars, Morten pioneered the bone-dry, mineral-style Riesling that has become a Finger Lakes favorite. In 2003, he even won Best Dry Riesling in the World Riesling Cup.
With 130 acres of sustainably farmed estate vineyards, Ravines grows all its grapes. They specialize in dry, vinifera wines made with European techniques from regions like Burgundy and Bordeaux. And all of their sparkling wines are made in the traditional Champagne method.
Wines to Try
Try the White Springs Riesling for beautiful floral aromas and distinctive minerality. I also thought the Sancerre-style Sauvignon Blanc was stellar too.
And for something unique, check out the sparkling Riesling. Made from nobly rotted grapes, it has a golden color. And it offers lovely honey, orange, and brioche flavors.
Visiting
Ravines has two tasting rooms in the Finger Lakes. The Keuka Lake location includes a cozy indoor tasting room (reservations required!). Plus, a spacious outdoor patio overlooking the lake.
And if you get a chance to visit the Seneca Lake location near Geneva, donât miss their food and wine experiences. They were rated one of the top winery kitchens by Food & Wine magazine!
5. McGregor Vineyard
In the 1960s, Bob and Marge McGregor embarked on an adventure to find the perfect vineyard spot. It took some time, but in 1971, they finally snagged 70 acres on Keuka Lakeâs east side.
Planting 28 acres, McGregor Vineyard became one of New York Stateâs early pioneers in Vitis vinifera. And in 1980, they proudly popped the cork on their first vintage. Fast forward to today, and the second generation is carrying the McGregor torch.
Everything at McGregor Vineyard is done by hand, from harvesting the grapes to crafting the wines. Theyâre all about quality, keeping yields low.
But letâs talk about their claim to fame â Saperavi. This ancient grape from the Republic of Georgia is a rare find in the U.S. McGregor Vineyard was Americaâs first commercially successful Saperavi producer. This bold red wine ages like a boss, at least 8-10 years and some even longer.
Wines to Try
During my visit, I did a comparison tasting of the 2019 Saperavi Reserve vs. the 2017 Grand Reserve, and you could already see the difference. The tannins had smoothed out. And it was developing deep earthy notes, balanced nicely with blackberry and black plum.
Their Cabernet Franc is also delicious, with soft tannins and ripe berry flavors. And I enjoyed their GewĂŒrztraminer â perfumed but not too overpowering as some can be.
Visiting
When you visit, prepare to be wowed. Their rustic tasting room has spectacular views overlooking scenic Keuka Lake. Youâll be treated to a seated tasting with tasty food pairing bites.
Oh, and donât forget to book ahead â reservations are recommended. But if you didnât plan ahead, theyâll do their best to accommodate you.
6. Domaine LeSeurre Winery
Domaine LeSeurre is where French flair meets Finger Lakes fun. Conveniently located next door to Weis Vineyards on the east side of the lake, this winery is the brainchild of CĂ©line and SĂ©bastien LeSeurre.
The two come from French winemaking families. After pursuing wine-related degrees and working in wine regions throughout the world, CĂ©line and SĂ©bastien met in New Zealand. Together, they embarked on a global winemaking adventure before falling in love with the Finger Lakes region.
At Domaine LeSeurre, they source grapes from local growers and age their wines in French oak barrels of varying ages. Theyâre also dabbling in traditional method sparkling wines, although these are only available through the wine club.
Wines to Try
While Domaine LeSeurre makes a variety of wines, I was partial to their red wines. Try the Reserve Special Blend â a delightful mix of Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. I also enjoyed the spicy Lemberger and the light and savory Pinot Noir.
Visiting
No reservations are needed for standing tastings at the bar. Afterwards, you can relax on their outdoor terrace and enjoy beautiful lake views while sampling their selection of boards, local cheeses, and French gourmet treats.
Or for an elevated tasting, reserve a spot for a wine and food experience. Wine and French macaron pairings? Yes, please!
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Keuka Lake Wine Tour
If youâre looking for a hassle-free way to explore the Keuka Lake region, this is a great tour option. It includes transportation and tastings at four wineries, including the legendary Dr. Konstantin Frank.
If youâre planning your own tour, itâs about an hourâs driving time to do a complete circuit of Keuka Lake. So, you can hit the highlights in one day.
Or split it over two days for the full experience. On day one, head to the east side of Keuka Lake to cover McGregor, Weis, Domaine LeSeurre, and Ravines.
And then visit Dr. Konstantin Frank and Keuka Lake Vineyard on the west side on day two. While youâre in the area, swing up to Heron Hill Winery for awesome views.
đ Book the Keuka Lake Wine Tour
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Where to Stay for Keuka Lake Wine Tasting
Keuka Lake has two main towns: Penn Yan at the northern tip and Hammondsport in the south. Both make excellent base camps for hitting the Keuka wine trail.
Now, if your plan includes exploring wineries on Seneca Lake too, Penn Yan is the way to go. It offers the convenience of being closer to Seneca. And youâll be near the fantastic Keuka Lake State Park to enjoy hiking, swimming, boating, and fishing.
My top recommendation is the charming Los Gatos Bed and Breakfast. Prepare to be spoiled with their award-winning breakfast and cozy atmosphere. Itâs the perfect place for a relaxing stay.
But if Los Gatos is fully booked the Best Western Plus Vineyard Inn & Suites is another great option.
đš Book Los Gatos B&B or Best Western Vineyard Inn
FAQs About Visiting Wineries on Keuka Lake
When Is the Best Time to Visit Keuka Lake Wineries?
The sweet spot is typically from May to October when the weather is splendid and the vineyards are at their prime.
But each season offers its own charm, whether you want to soak in autumnâs vibrant hues or cozy up for more intimate tastings during the winter off-season.
If youâre there in July, check out the Finger Lakes Wine Festival to sample fabulous wines from many of the regionâs producers. And enjoy live music and culinary classes.
How Many Wineries Are Around Keuka Lake?
Keuka Lake is home to about 20 wineries, including renowned producers and small family-owned estates.
are wineries in the finger lakes open Year-round?
Many of the wineries in the Finger Lakes, including the ones around Keuka Lake, are open year-round. Just be sure to check their website before stopping by in the off-season.
Do You Need Reservations for wineries on keuka lake?
Not all Keuka Lake wineries require a reservation. But itâs a wise move to make one, especially on weekends and holidays.
Some have limited spots for tastings and tours, so reserving in advance ensures youâll snag your preferred time slot. And you wonât be stuck waiting, or worse, turned away.
Check out my other winery tasting room etiquette tips.
How Much is a Tasting at keuka lake wineries?
While the days of free tastings in the Finger Lakes region are gone, you still wonât break the bank at Keuka Lake wineries. With tasting fees averaging just $10 to $15, itâs a steal compared to other popular U.S. wine regions.
And some wineries even offer a refund on your tasting fee with a minimum purchase or if you become a wine club member. Find out more about wine tasting prices. And learn ways to save money on your wine country trips with travel rewards.
Can I Bring My Kids to the Wineries?
Unlike regions like Napa and Sonoma, many of the Finger Lakes wineries are fine with the kiddos joining. Some even offer grape juice or other non-alcoholic beverages to keep the little sippers happy. Just keep in mind that policies vary, so check the wineryâs website before packing up the crew.
Keuka Lake Wine Region
History of Keuka Lake Wineries
Keuka Lake may not be the biggest fish in the Finger Lakes pond, but it sure made some waves in American winemaking history!
Way back in the early 1800s, Reverend William W. Bostwick had the bright idea to plant the first vines in Hammondsport. Soon enough, others hopped on the grape train and started growing native varieties like Catawba and Isabella.
Fast forward to the 1860s, and we witness the birth of the Great Western Winery (now known as Pleasant Valley Wine Company). It was the first bonded winery in U.S. And these folks became famous for their award-winning American sparkling wines.
But prohibition hit the scene in the roaring 20s, putting a damper on the party. After the dust settled, a Frenchman named Charles Fournier swooped in. He planted experimental vineyards and introduced French-American hybrid grapes like LĂ©on Millot.
And letâs not forget the creation of Cayuga, a white hybrid grape introduced by Cornell Universityâs Grapevine Breeding and Genetics Program in 1945.
Our story takes a turn when Charles Fournier hires the legendary Dr. Konstantin Frank. This Ukrainian immigrant made history in 1957 by successfully planting vinifera vines in the region.
Fast forward through the years, and laws started changing, making it easier for wineries to sell directly to us thirsty folks and even open their own tasting rooms. And just like that, more and more wineries began to pop up around Keuka Lake.
The Finger Lakes AVA (American Viticultural Area) became official in 1982. And now they even have their own Keuka Lake Wine Trail.
Today, New York holds the third spot in wine production nationwide. And with 20 wineries calling Keuka Lake home, you better believe theyâre producing some top-notch wines.
Keuka Lake Climate and Terroir
When it comes to weather, the Finger Lakes region knows how to keep winemakers on their toes. This cool climate brings all kinds of challenges like rain, snow, and humidity. Growing conditions are unpredictable. So, itâs all about adapting practices based on the vintage.
Now, letâs talk about the lake itself. This Y-shaped beauty was formed by glaciers that came down from Canada. They carved their way through the land, leaving behind a stunning array of soil types. To paint a picture for you, in one row of vines, the soil can change a half-dozen times.
The lake stretches 22 miles long, with widths ranging from half a mile to two miles. And it reaches depths of more than 180 feet, but not as deep as neighboring Seneca Lake. In fact, it occasionally freezes over during winter.
The âlake effectâ is what makes grape-growing possible. In spring, the cold water cools the surrounding air and delays budburst. This protects those delicate buds from potential frost damage.
And come fall, the warm water and sunâs reflection extend the growing season, giving the grapes time to ripen.
That means thereâs only a narrow band where grapes can thrive along the lakeâs shores. And thatâs why Keuka Lakeâs wine production remains on the smaller side.
All these natural elements come together to create wines with a zippy, acidic backbone and intense aromatics.
Keuka Lake Wines
Keuka Lake wineries, like the rest of the Finger Lakes region, are all about aromatic white wines. Riesling takes the spotlight, often produced in a dry and mineral-driven style.
Youâll also find GewĂŒrztraminer and GrĂŒner Veltliner. But donât worry, Chardonnay lovers, youâll find plenty of that too!
When it comes to red wines, Cabernet Franc and Lemberger do best. The latter is also known in Austria as BlaufrĂ€nkisch and youâll see it labeled both ways here.
Some winemakers also attempt Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon. But theyâre tough to grow in this cold, wet climate.
Hybrid grapes like Vignoles and LĂ©on Millot are still common. And if youâre feeling adventurous, a few wineries are producing wines with grape varieties from the Republic of Georgia, like Saperavi and Rkatsiteli.
If you havenât yet, check out my guide on the best Seneca Lake wineries.
Check out More U.S. Wine Destinations
The Best North Fork Long Island Wineries
The 10 Best Wineries Near Charlottesville, VA
3 Best Wineries in Northern Virginia
Have you visited any of these Keuka Lake wineries? Which one is your favorite?
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